Sony is preparing to release a new Mario-inspired adventure game for the PS5, featuring the cute Astro Bot mascot character.
To celebrate the game’s launch on September 6, Sony has announced a themed DualSense controller that is undeniably adorable.
The Astro Bot Limited Edition DualSense wireless controller pays homage to the titular character, who first appeared in a collection of VR minigames released in 2013. Sony describes the controller as a “true work of art,” and it’s easy to see why. The touchpad features a pair of robotic eyes, while the handles and buttons sport Astro Bot’s signature blue accents.
Sony has also revealed how the upcoming 3D platformer, titled “Astro Bot’s Playroom,” takes advantage of the DualSense controller’s unique features. The developer has increased the number of textures that players can feel through the controller via haptic feedback, and the adaptive trigger response has been refined to match the protagonist’s new powers. As an example, Sony mentions being able to “feel the thruster rattling” when using a jetpack.
Furthermore, Sony states that every new power-up in the game “has been given that same special treatment.” This includes the Dual Speeder gadget, which turns the controller into a motion-controlled spaceship. These new features are applicable to all DualSense controllers, not just the Astro Bot-themed one.
The limited-edition controller is priced at $80 and will be available on September 6, the same day as the game’s release. After playing a demo of Astro Bot’s Playroom in June, reviewers were impressed, describing the game as “fantastic” and “infused with childlike joy.” With its adorable design and innovative use of the DualSense controller’s features, the Astro Bot Limited Edition DualSense controller is sure to be a hit among PS5 owners and fans of the Astro Bot series.
